2. A good option is to find a model home. This avoids the time and stress of having to build from scratch.

3. If there are still no houses that you like then you need to choose a builder. It is important that you select a reputable builder based on credibility, previous customers and skill. Be sure to speak to other people and obtain references.

4. Most builders will build your home from a model design, however you should always feel free to add you own modifications if you wish.

5. When negotiating the contract it is important to include everything up front, as it’s difficult to go back and add things in further down the line once the work has commenced. Make sure that everything is written down and included beforehand.

6. You will always be presented with opportunities to upgrade, so make sure that you stick to your allowances for the project.

7. Accept that you you can’t do everything to absolute perfection all of the time, so you should expect that there will be things that need to be changed when you new house build is complete.

8. You should be aware that it is not always possible to finish the project on the specified closing date and you should therefore be flexible in with regard to this and no attempt to rush things.

9. Make sure that you have a warranty in case you have problems once you home is complete.